Summary
This 2016 review in Trends in Ecology & Evolution synthesises research on soil biodiversity and its role in agricultural sustainability, framing soil ecological engineering as a pathway to improve farming systems. The authors argue that enhanced belowground biodiversity—particularly through management of microbial communities and soil fauna—can support multiple ecosystem services including nutrient cycling and disease suppression. The paper positions soil health as central to sustainable intensification of agriculture.
UK applicability
The review's principles on soil biodiversity management are applicable to UK farming contexts, including both arable and grassland systems. UK policy frameworks on soil health and sustainable agriculture align with the ecological engineering concepts discussed, though implementation across diverse farm types and soil conditions requires contextualised guidance.
Key measures
Soil biodiversity metrics; soil ecological functions; crop yield and sustainability outcomes
Outcomes reported
The paper examines how soil biodiversity and ecological engineering approaches can enhance agricultural sustainability. It synthesises evidence on the role of soil organisms in maintaining soil functions and crop productivity.
Topic tags
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